A battle for control of a key meat processor is unfolding in the US and it has features that should be analysed by those engaged in meat production closer to home.

Another quiet day, another quiet record on Wall Street.

Merck & Co’s decision to suspend sales of its Zilmax cattle feed additive has caused such a surge in demand for rival Eli Lilly & Co’s Optaflexx that Lilly is telling some new customers it cannot immediately supply them, some US-based customers have told Reuters.